The Mid South Sign Association June 2015 the MID SOUTH B E E M R S

Find MSSA on LinkedIn & Facebook A Publication of the Mid South Sign Association June 2015 THE MID SOUTH B E E M R S

S S

P R P E O B R M T E I N G M MESSENGER Nine Reasons the MSSA 2015 Annual Meeting/Trade Show will be a Memorable Meeting for You and Your Company! SIGHTS, SOUNDS

1. Hear from Dr. Vicki, an FBI Special Agent/Undercover Agent/Supervisor, & SIGNS OF MUSIC ROW University Dean, and clinical ANNUAL MEETING & TRADE SHOW EMBASSY SUITES NASHVILLE SE PLUS! psychologist in the sports and MURFREESBORO, TENNESSEE FREE Saturday business performance fields. JULY 23-25, 2015 Exhibit Hall • Education • Entertainment • Exhibits • Networking Entry for Sign 2. Meet Kate Wentworth of Regal Companies! Cinemas and gain unique insight from an end user’s perspective.

3. Speed date with National Sign Companies.

4. Experience Music City by touring several music studios/attractions and learning about the music that defines Nashville, Tennessee.

5. Visit with over 78 vendors as they showcase and demonstrate their latest products and services.

6. Network with like-minded businesspeople.

7. Enjoy a tour of the Musician’s Hall of Fame and Museum and the music of five musicians in a ‘Songwriter’s Round’.

8. View ALL MSSA Sign Design Entries.

9. Carry home deals purchased during MSSA Steve Metheny Scholarship Live and Silent Auctions.

Stay Informed About MSSA Events It’s important to be ‘in the know’ on the happenings within MSSA!

1. Forward your and/or your company personnel’s contact information to [email protected] a. First Name & Last Name b. E-mail Address c. Direct Phone Number (if warranted) 2. Add MSSA’s Facebook page (www.facebook.com/midsouthsign) to your news feed; just click “Like” while visiting our page.

Thanks for your help! So that MSSA may learn more about our members’ companies, please forward YOUR Company’s Facebook page. Mid South Messenger - June 2015

Sights, Sounds & Signs of Music Row MSSA 2015 Annual Meeting & Trade Show Activities For MSSA meeting-goers, it’s all about the experience! With this in mind, MSSA has integrated events into our Annual Meeting/ Tradeshow to keep participants engaged.

Wednesday, July 22nd

6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. WELCOME TO “THE BIG BANG: DUELING PIANO BAR” RECEPTION SPONSORED BY EASTERN METAL SUPPLY / FACES Join us for a sing-along, clap-along, drink-along, ‘gonna-have-a-good-time’ evening! Any song of any genre requested can be performed by the band (especially if the request is made alongside a $20 bill). What will be the favorite of the night: “Rocky Top”, “Yea Alabama”, “War Eagle”, or “Ragin’ Cajuns”?

Hosted by Eastern Metal Supply and Faces, this event guarantees great entertainment while enjoying hors d’oeuvres with a local flavor.

Open to registrants Thursday, July 23rd

3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. SEMINAR: How important has signage been to the advancement of Regal Cinemas as a company? Presented by Kate Wentworth Join this session to gain unique insight from an end user’s perspective: • Why brick and mortar still matters in a multichannel world • How Regal Cinemas is redefining the theatre experience • The value of creating a multi-dimensional brand story • What Regal Cinemas values and measures (key performance indicators) for their business partners and vendors

Kate Wentworth graduated magna cum laude with a double major in Marketing and Business Management from King University. Kate’s twelve years of sign-industry experience began as a project manager at ImagePoint for two years in the financial conversions program before becoming the Director of Signage at Regal Cinemas corporate office for the last ten years. As the youngest Director in the corporate office, Kate proved that what she lacked in age she made up for in determination, knowledge, and a willingness to go toe-to-toe with General Contractors and Signage Vendors alike. Open to registrants 5:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. NATIONAL SIGN COMPANY NETWORKING RECEPTION & GOLF CALCUTTA Want the opportunity to network with some of the country’s largest sign companies? Join MSSA for our National Sign Company Networking Reception. MSSA will be hosting a reception that will allow you to introduce yourself and network with National Sign Companies as they look to expand their install and manufacturing partnerships. Don’t miss this event if you are looking to bring some business back from Tennessee! Time slots available upon arrival at reception for sign companies and vendors. MSSA Golf Calcutta will take place around 6:45 and is an open auction to bid on your favorite golf team.

Open to registrants Friday, July 24th

8:00 a.m. (Shotgun Start, please arrive by 7:00 a.m.) ELVIS DAVIS GOLF CLASSIC, OLD FORT GOLF CLUB When asked if you’re attending the MSSA Convention/Tradeshow for work or pleasure, the answer is “YES!” Let’s play GOLF! The Old Fort Golf Club is an 18-hole championship course on a 50-acre park. The park grounds include the Civil War era Fortress Rosecrans and two trailheads to the City’s Greenway system. A complimentary lunch and two drink tickets will be provided. MSSA golf awards presentation will immediately follow the tournament. Individuals wishing to participate, please contact MSSA’s own golf Pro, Elvis Davis (901) 335-8473 or [email protected].

See registration form - Cost $85

2 Mid South Messenger - June 2015

8:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. HITTING THE HIGH NOTES OF MUSIC CITY - TOUR Nashville’s Music Row Studios is the land of bittersweet ambitions and tearful dreams. Many a brave soul has tested their luck and abilities here in various forms. Some have succeeded, but many have fallen. All in all it boasts a mighty and impressive history for a city of the size of Nashville. Southwest of Downtown Nashville, Music Row is home to hundreds of businesses related to the country, gospel, and Contemporary Christian music industries and is widely considered the heart of Nashville’s entertainment industry. Take a tour of Music Row with MSSA and visit historic Grand Victor Studio, RCA Studio B, Quonset Hut and Columbia A. You may go to www.studiob.org and www.grandvictorsound.com to learn more about these legendary studios, now on the National List of Historic Places.

Ryman Auditorium was built by steamboat captain Thomas G. Ryman in 1892 as the Union Gospel Tabernacle and later became known as the Ryman Auditorium in honor of the man who built the Nashville landmark. In 1943, with crowds too big and too rowdy for other Nashville venues, the Grand Ole Opry® found a home at the Ryman. For the next thirty-one years, the Ryman served as the premier stage for the Opry’s live radio shows, which included such legends as Elvis Presley, Hank Williams, Johnny Cash, Marty Robbins, Minnie Pearl, Patsy Cline, and Roy Acuff.

The Johnny Cash Museum is dedicated to the life and music career of the late Man in Black and featuring the largest and most comprehensive collection of Johnny Cash artifacts and memorabilia in the world. Exhibits chronicle The Man in Black’s life with stunning graphics, artifacts and interactive technology and include stage costumes, instruments, personal letters, artwork and handwritten songs, as well as artifacts from family members and notable friends.

Please see registration form – Cost $60

3:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. SEMINAR: “How to read, lead, motivate, and communicate” Dr. Woosley will share experiences from her work as an FBI Special Agent/Undercover Agent/Supervisor, University Dean, and clinical psychologist in the sports and business performance fields.

Topics will include, but not limited to: • How your mindset impacts success • Focus on process and not outcome • Reading the customer or employee and adjusting your approach • Sales, what does that mean? • Using shadow boxing to practice your sales pitch • Pre-sale routine is important with post-routine equally important • Pulling the trigger and closing the deal • Wins/Losses -‐ how are you measured? • How much time do you practice? • Training -‐ why it is important? • Mentoring • Feedback -‐ beneficial and constructive • Development plan In 2006, Dr. Woosley retired from the Federal Bureau of Investigation with 21 years of distinguished service. While assigned to FBI headquarters she served as a Supervisory Special Agent in the psychological services unit, administering psychometric testing and evaluation to all active undercover agents and assisted in the screening, selection, training, and certification of undercover operatives. She investigated the Unabomber case and was a first responder on 9/11. Her last assignment was as an instructor at the FBI Academy developing curriculum, teaching new agents and analysts. Open to registrants

5:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. NEW MEMBERS RECEPTION When asked why a member rejoins from year to year, one explanation which always places within the top three: MSSA members enjoy being around other MSSA members. A meeting space is being provided for each new member so that other members may drop by for a visit. The reception is open to all members to meet members who have been unable to attend a MSSA function. So that table may be reserved in your honor, please contact MSSA ([email protected]). Open to registrants

3 Mid South Messenger - June 2015

6:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. “SIGNS, SIGNS, EVERYWHERE A SIGN” BUSINESS DINNER Come learn and relax while we openly discuss several short business matters and enjoy a dinner of local cuisine. ALL entries for the 2015 MSSA Sign Design Competition will be available for viewing. Open to registrants

6:30 p.m. “THE STEVE METHENY SCHOLARSHIP FOUNDATION” SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS, LIVE AUCTION, AND RAFFLE MSSA is proud to provide higher education financial awards to employees or dependants of employees of MSSA member firms. Sixty-five $1,500 scholarships were awarded in 2014, which also marked MSSA’s total scholarship funding history reaching beyond $1,000,000!

Immediately following the presentation of scholarship awards, The Steve Metheny Scholarship Live Auction and Raffle will begin. Once again, MSSA is blessed to have Richard Clifton as our auctioneer. As the saying goes, “bid high and bid often” for scholarship funds are obtained through items sold during both live and silent auctions.

Attendees are responsible for donating and bidding on items for auction.

To donate, please contact prior to July 21st concerning items you would like to donate: Steve Metheny at [email protected] (205) 410-3223 Sean Schultz, Reece Supply Co., [email protected] (800)776-0130 David White, Reece Supply Co., [email protected] (214) 794-0450 Mid South Sign Association [email protected] (901) 452-6444 Open to registrants

Saturday, July 25th 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. EXHBITORS’ TRADE SHOW (CASH PRIZES) & SCHOLARSHIP SILENT AUCTION ****FREE Exhibit Hall Entry for Sign Company Attendees**** Motivational drive will overtake all as they enter the exhibit hall to view the latest and greatest in the sign industry. The face-to-face interaction with nearly 75 table top exhibitors will help influence how your business develops over the years. $100 cash prizes will be given away every 30 minutes during exhibit hours to a sign company representative who is in the exhibit hall. During exhibit hours, silent auction items will be available for your inspection and bidding to support the Steve Metheny Scholarship Foundation. Bidding will close promptly at 3:00 p.m. Open to registrants

5:30 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. LIGHTING UP THE NIGHT IN MUSIC CITY; SONGWRITER’S NIGHT IN MUSIC CITY Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum with Special Hosts: David Briggs and Charlie McCoy Opening in 2006, The Musicians Hall of Fame & Museum is not solely dedicated to country music, but many genres such as pop, rock, and Motown. The museum houses famous music memorabilia, once belonging to famous performers as well as unsung sidemen and session players. As a songwriter, producer, musical director, sessions player, and keyboardist, David Briggs is best known as Elvis Presley’s keyboard player as well as his part in opening for the Beatle’s first U.S. appearances. David has recorded with hundreds of artists, including Loretta Lyn, Bob Seger, Hank Williams Jr., Joe Cocker, Linda Ronstadt, Sammy Davis Jr., Marty Robbins, Neil Young, Roy Orbison, just to name a few. By the mid-’60s, Charlie McCoy was a fixture on Elvis Presley’s Nashville and Los Angeles sessions, and in 1965, he began working with Bob Dylan, appearing on a string of legendary LPs that included Highway 61 Revisited, Blonde on Blonde, John Wesley Harding, and Nashville Skyline. As a result, McCoy became as much in demand among rock and folk artists as he was within the Nashville community and began performing with the likes of Ringo Starr, Al Kooper, Gordon Lightfoot, and John Stewart. At his peak, he was performing on over 400 sessions annually.

Songwriters “Round” Performances by hit songwriters and with “behind-the-song” story-telling

Jessi Alexander Established Singer/ Songwriter, Jessi Alexander, is the writer of chart topping hits on country radio today. Alexander has penned four #1’s including “I Drive Your Truck” recorded by Lee Brice which won Song of the Year at the 2013 CMA Awards, 2014 ACM Awards, and 2013 NSAI Awards. Additional #1’s include Blake Shelton’s “Mine Would Be You” and “Drink On It.” Alexander’s career skyrocketed with her song “The Climb” recorded by Miley Cyrus. “The Climb” soon became the anthem for her box office hit “The Hannah Montana Movie” and won the 2009 MTV Movie Awards ‘Best Song From A Movie’. Jessi has also written her 9 song album, “Down Home” which is available on iTunes.

4 Mid South Messenger - June 2015

Jimmy Robbins In 2012, after moving to Nashville, TN, Jimmy exploded on the music scene in a big way! In just over two years he has celebrated 5 #1 songs starting with Blake Shelton’s “Sure Be Cool If You Did”, “It Goes Like This” for newcomer Thomas Rhett, Keith Urban/Miranda Lambert’s duet “We Were Us,” “Whatever She’s Got” by David Nail, and “Beachin’” by Jake Owen. Jimmy is a 2014 ASCAP SONG OF THE YEAR award winner for “It Goes Like This” as the most performed song of 2014. He received four ASCAP song awards during the 2014 ceremony. He was a 2014 CMA Triple play award winner, the 2014 ASCAP BREAKOUT Writer of the country genre, and 1 of 10 writers worldwide to be recognized alongside artists like Iggy Azalea. At the 2015 National League of Cities Convention in Washington DC he opened for President Barack Obama.

Interested in visiting downtown Nashville Honky Tonks after our Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum event? No problem, transportation back to hotel is being provided from 10:00 - 2:00 am!

See you there! Please see registration form – Cost $95

An MSSA Testimonial A potential MSSA sign company member asked Sandi Singletary what was her biggest takeaway from MSSA.

Her response: “My biggest takeaway from MSSA isn’t necessarily the increase in customers or sales, but rather it is the opportunity for continuing education that MSSA provides; learning new technologies and different methods on how to do the things we already do has proved invaluable to my organization. Also, building relationships with suppliers and getting better service because of those relationships.” Sandi Singletary Vice-President Trav-Ad Signs, Inc Huntsville, AL 35811

wholesale Channel Letters Winslow Armstead Altec Industries, Inc. Account Manager

33 Inverness Center Parkway Mobile: (205) 577-7076 Suite 110 Facsimile (205) 449-9844 Birmingham, AL 35242 [email protected] www.altec.com 866-278-5543 www.directsignwholesale.com

Veritas® Veritas BoxStar® V600

Supplier of High Brightness, High CRI, LED Sign Lighting Modules

Featuring High Specification Seoul Semiconductor LEDs

85 years in sign lighting, with a reputation built on longstanding customer relationships, quality products, and trust.

Contact: (800) 345-9010 egl-lighting.com 5 Mid South Messenger - June 2015

Notice of Proposed Bylaws Amendments On March 11, 2015 the MSSA Board of Directors, the MSSA Bylaws Committee, and the Past Presidents met and discussed proposed changes to the MSSA Bylaws. In strong consideration of our traditions and values, the MSSA Board of Directors voted unanimously on March 12, 2015 to approve the following Bylaws amendments that are fundamental to our association’s growth and success. This is to provide official notice that amendments to Mid South Sign Association Bylaws have been proposed. In accordance with Article VIII (Bylaws Amendments), notice is hereby given to all Members that the following amendment proposals will be voted upon at the next annual business meeting of the membership, July 24, 2015, at the Embassy Suites Nashville SE - Murfreesboro, 1200 Conference Center Blvd. To be approved, the amendment requires a majority (more than 50%) of the Voting Members (delegates) who are registered and in attendance during the membership business meeting with 30 days notice of the intent to amend provided The language to be added is italicized and in blue. Language to be stricken is indicated by strikethrough and in red.

Motion: 1 Article II: WHEREAS, The ISA Board of Directors prior to 2012 had a regional council consisting of board members of 9 regional associations that represented their regional board on the ISA Board of Directors.

WHEREAS, This is no longer relevant due to the reorganization of the ISA Board of Directors in 2012.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, That the MSSA Bylaws, Article II be amended to remove section (g):

Article II: Purposes The purposes of this Association shall be to:

(a) Promote the welfare of the on premise sign industry, (b) Advance the common interests of its members, (c) Provide an organization for the interchange of ideas and products relating to the business of members of the Association, (d) Provide for joint efforts on behalf of legislation and other matters of interest as they affect the members of the Association, (e) Promote education and research, (f) Encourage high ethical standards, and (g) Provide representation of the members on the Board of Directors of the International Sign Association and other related associations, and (h) (g) Subscribe to and promote the purposes and goals of the International Sign Association.

Motion: 2 Article III:

WHEREAS, The makeup of our membership continues to change.

WHEREAS, The growth of our members’ companies and our association rely heavily on the support of professional services. WHEREAS, the membership group, “Manufacturers’ Representative” has always been a provider of professional services to our membership. WHEREAS, a broader definition such as “Professional Services” would encompass the services provided by Manufacturers’ Representatives and also include other members that don’t fit neatly in another membership division such as companies Mikos / Kampakis Insurance, MET Laboratories, and Sign Drafting.

creating the See our new right web site

signage Don’t let our name fool you! We also make:

solutions for you For Your Complete Sign Needs 800 800 3223 elrodllc.com 800.553.5111 [email protected] Track Your Orders Online at signfaces.com 6 Mid South Messenger - June 2015

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, That the MSSA Bylaws, Article III Membership, Section 1 – Qualifications and Eligibility be amended to read:

Article III: Membership Section 1: Qualifications and Eligibility The membership of the Association shall consist of: (a) On Premise Sign Companies, (b) Supply Distributors, (c) Product Manufacturers, (d) Manufacturers’ Representatives, Professional Services, (e) Sign Users, (f) Related Associations, (g) And any others deemed qualified and with the approval of the Board of Directors

All interested in membership shall submit application to the Board of Directors for approval Executive Director.

Membership is held in the name of the firm or corporation, and one individual shall be designated by the firm as its Representative. (moved from Article III, Section 2)

Motion: 3 Article III:

WHEREAS, The term Membership defines a group of members.

WHEREAS, The membership is accepted upon receipt of payment with no approval of board needed.

WHEREAS, A member receives a member packet and benefits of membership upon payment and prior to board approval.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, That the MSSA Bylaws, Article III, Section 2 – Election of Members be strike completely:

Article III Section 2 Election of Members

A majority vote of the Board of Directors is necessary for election to membership.

Applicants shall be deemed provisional members from the time a completed application is received until such time as the Board of Directors acts upon the membership.

Membership is held in the name of the firm or corporation, and one individual shall be designated by the firm as its Representative.

Motion: 4 Article V:

WHEREAS, the ISA Board of Directors reorganized and changed its governance structure in 2012.

WHEREAS, all regions may now join ISA as an affiliate and MSSA currently has an affiliate agreement in place with ISA. WHEREAS, A sign company member is automatically a member of ISA simply by joining MSSA.

Your Source YOUR for PARTNER FOR Dimensional ENDURING Letters, Logos & Plaques for QUALITY over 50 years.

GeminiSignProducts.com www.signletters.com 1-800-538-8377 7 Mid South Messenger - June 2015

WHEREAS, This was once a regionalization requirement of ISA and has no relevance today.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, That the MSSA Bylaws, Article V, Section 1 – Powers, Duties, and Responsibilities be amended to read:

Article V Section 1 Powers, Duties, and Responsibilities

The business and affairs of the Association shall be managed by its Board of Directors.

The Board of Directors shall have the authority to enter into contracts on behalf of the Association.

The Board of Directors shall be responsible for administering the funds and assets of the Association.

The Board of Directors shall be responsible for payment of all indebtedness and liabilities. The Board of Directors shall be responsible for appointing representatives or nominees to other associations as necessary.

The Board of Directors may delegate any of its duties to others, as it may deem appropriate.

The Board of Directors shall serve as the Mid South Sign Association of the International Sign Association.

Motion: 5 Article VI:

WHEREAS, Service on the Nominations and Elections Committee carries with it the responsibility of the future leadership of the association.

WHEREAS, The importance of this committee warrants a better, more strategic structure to be in place for forming this committee each year.

WHEREAS, The Board of Directors should have the responsibility of nominating and electing its leadership. THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, That the MSSA Bylaws, Article VI, Section 2 – Nominations and Elections Committee be amended to read:

Article VI Section 2 Nominations and Elections Committee

The Nominations and Elections Committee shall ordinarily be chaired by the Past President and shall be composed of two (2) additional members that serve as directors on the current Board of Directors. appointed by the Board of Directors.

The Nominations and Elections Committee will be appointed by the President and approved by the board of directors during the first Board of Directors meeting each year.

The Nominations and Elections Committee shall receive nominations and prepare and present to the Board of Directors for approval its recommendations for Officers and Directors.

Elections for Officers and Directors shall be by procedures established by the Board of Directors.

The Nominations and Elections Committee shall supervise the election process.

Motion: 6 Article VII:

WHEREAS, The Board of Directors should have the right to make changes to meeting schedules and meeting agendas as required to address the changing needs of our membership.

800.323.6593 www.matthewspaint.com 8 Mid South Messenger - June 2015

WHEREAS, items related to meeting agendas should be addressed in Policies and Procedures and should not be considered an association Bylaw unless it is part of the mission of the association.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, That the MSSA Bylaws, Article VII – Meetings be amended to read:

Article VII. Meetings

There shall be an Annual Meeting of the membership for the purposes of conducting business.

Special meetings may be called by the President or the Board of Directors.

There shall be at least one meeting per year for the purposes of providing education and training for the membership.

Any meeting of the membership shall include time for conducting business.

A quorum is a majority of the delegates who are registered and in attendance during the membership business meeting at a convention / conference and which shall be necessary to conduct business.

Robert’s Rules of Order, Newly Revised, shall govern the proceedings of all meetings of the Association and its Board of Directors, unless otherwise approved by the Board of Directors.

Motion: 7 Article IV:

WHEREAS, The membership has placed its trust in the Board of Directors to select its leaders based on their abilities, integrity, and proven experience.

WHEREAS, The Bylaws of an association should never prevent the board of directors from selecting appropriate leadership. WHEREAS, The subcommittee has agreed to make changes to the board makeup which decreases the number of Board members therefore increasing the importance of highly qualified leadership. WHEREAS, The office of Vice President, President, and Past President could all benefit by serving a first year on the Executive Committee as Secretary Treasurer.

WHEREAS, The office of Secretary Treasurer could benefit by better understanding the association’s business after serving a year on the MSSA Board of Directors. WHEREAS, The title of President Elect is normally associated with an official that has not yet taken office and the MSSA President Elect is a voting member of the Executive Committee and the Board of Directors. WHEREAS, The duties of President Elect are of the same duties described by most organizations as Vice President.

WHEREAS, It is common on other association boards for the title of this position to be Vice President.

WHEREAS, The office of Secretary Treasure is normally the Chair of the Finance Committee and there was a time in the association’s history when this position required consistency in office and specific expertise that may not be available from the board of directors.

WHEREAS, The organization employees a full-time executive director whose duties include managing the finances of the association.

WHEREAS, 2 year terms with unlimited term limits are no longer necessary due to the full-time position of executive director.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, That the MSSA Bylaws, Article IV, Section 1 – Election and Terms be amended to read:

Article IV Officers Section 1 Election and Terms

WHOLESALE GRAPHICS MANUFACTURING Peace of mind through partnership, every step of the way. Supplies and Equipment for all of your Production Needs PureColor Technology™ On-Line Estimating with OLE® Free UPS Ground Shipping! www.reecesupply.com DALLAS HOUSTON SAN ANTONIO EL PASO TULSA NEW ORLEANS ATLANTA CHARLOTTE 1 (800) 336-1224 www.MiratecSystems.com 800-776-7448 800-776-0113 800-776-0224 877-776-0128 800-556-5000 800-776-0130 800-776-0115 855-425-1140 9 Mid South Messenger - June 2015

The Officers of the Association shall consist of President, President Elect, Vice President, Past President, and Secretary Treasurer. The President shall be the Representative of an On Premise Sign Company or Supply Distributor or Product Manufacturer and shall have just completed a term as President Elect Vice President. The term is for one year after which the President shall succeed to the office of Past President. The Supply Distributor or Product Manufacturer must live and work in MSSA’s five state region. The President Elect Vice President shall have just completed a term as Secretary Treasurer. be the Representative of an On Premise Sign Company or Supply Distributor or Product Manufacturer. The term of office is one year after which the President Elect Vice President shall succeed to the office of President. The Supply Distributor or Product Manufacturer must live and work in MSSA’s five state region. The Past President shall have just completed a term as President. be the most recently retired President. The term of office is one year. The Past President is not eligible for election to any office for a period of one year following the end of the term as Past President. The Secretary Treasurer shall be the Representative of an On Premise Sign Company or Supply Distributor or Product Manufacturer. The Supply Distributor or Product Manufacturer must live and work in MSSA’s five state region. The Secretary Treasurer shall serve for two years. have just completed a minimum of 1 year service on the current Board of Directors. The term of office is one year after which the Secretary Treasurer shall succeed to the office of Vice President. Officers assume office at the Annual Meeting of the year in which they were elected on January 1st of the year following their election. or on any other date established by the Board of Directors.

Committee Motion: 8 Article V:

WHEREAS, The State Director position is represented by a sign company from each state and in many cases it is difficult to keep volunteers in these positions.

WHERAS, MSSA employees a full-time executive director whose duties include communication between MSSA members and ISA.

WHEREAS, it is the desire of the board to have a group of dedicated volunteers.

WHEREAS, the need to fill a vacant State Director position has resulted in an empty seat and at times, an unreliable board member.

WHEREAS, It is the desire to have a more active and efficient Board of Directors.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, That the MSSA Bylaws, Article V, Section 2 be amended to read:

Article V Board of Directors Section 2 Elections and Terms of Office

The Board of Directors shall consist of the four (4) Officers andeleven (11) Directors (8) Directors. All members of the Board of Directors shall be members of the International Sign Association. Directors shall serve a term of two years and may succeed themselves. Directors may serve a maximum of 2 consecutive terms in their elected position. Directors assume office at the Annual Meeting of the year in which they were elected or on any other date established by the Board of Directors. January 1st the year following elections. Election of directors shall be conducted as stated in the “Policies and Procedures Manual” established by the Mid South Sign Association Board of Directors.

Awnings | Canopies | Large Framing | Prototype Engineering | Signs

Monday - Friday: 5:00 A.M. - 5:00 P.M. PST Providing stamped engineered drawings and calculations in all 50 states Licensed throughout the US for Coast to Coast Engineering

www.sullawayeng.com | 858-312-5150 | [email protected] 10 Mid South Messenger - June 2015

The eleven (11) eight (8) Directors are composed of: (a) Five (5) Four (4) Directors who are Representatives of On Premise Sign Companies. from each of the five states. Directors from Alabama, Arkansas, and Louisiana shall be elected in even numbered years. Directors from Mississippi and Tennessee Two shall be elected in even numbered years and two shall be elected in odd numbered years. (b) One (1) Director who is a Representative of a Supply Distributor and who shall be elected in odd numbered years. To be chosen by his peers, Supply Distributors. (c) One (1) Director who is a Representative of a Product Manufacturer and who shall be elected in even numbered years. To be chosen by his peers, Product Manufacturers. (d) One (1) Additional States Director who is a Representative of On Premise Sign Company and represents sign companies located in states outside MSSA five state region. Director shall be elected in even number of years. (e) Two (2) One (1) At Large Directors, one who shall be elected in even number years and one who shall be elected in odd numbered years. who is a representative of any MSSA membership division (unrestricted seat) and shall be elected in odd number years. (f) (e) One (1) representative of the Past Presidents Committee and who shall be elected in even numbered years. To be chosen by his peers, MSSA Past Presidents.

2015 Premium Gold Sponsors

Mid South Sign Association extends a heartfelt thank you to our 2015 Premium Gold Sponsors for their generous contributions in helping make MSSA’s vision a reality by offsetting our cost of holding the Annual Meeting in Nashville SE - Murfreesboro, Tennessee. As we continually grow, please know that partnerships with our sponsors are vital to the success of our association. You are truly appreciated. 3M Graphics Market Center Charles Hampton’s A-1 signs Inc. Daktronics Inc Eastern Metal Supply, Inc. faces Gemini Inc Graphic Solutions Group Inc Hampton Enterprises Herring Sales Inc Matthews Paint Mikos Kampakis Insurance Services Reece Supply Co. Scott Powerline and Utility Equipment Sign Builders Inc Steel Art Company Thinksign, Inc. Tubelite Co Inc Watchfire Signs by Time-O-Matic

Interested in learning more about MSSA Annual Meeting and Trade Show sponsorship opportunities? Visit www.midsouthsign.org or contact MSSA (901) 452-6444.

Connect with other MSSA Members and get the latest on Facebook and LinkedIn.

watchfiresigns.com 11 Mid South Messenger - June 2015

Sign Museum Online Auction Opens June 1 The American Sign Museum’s Fifth Annual Online Auction opens on June 1 at midnight EST and will close June 24 at midnight EST. The fundraising event includes sign products, equipment and services that sign shops use every day, as well as a selection of consumer goods. A sampling of auction items includes the following:

• Business, estimating and design software • Printers and cutters/plotters • Adhesives and tapes • Vinyl and printing media • Banners and banner components • Digital printing services • LED and lighting products/systems • Engineering services • Consumer goods such as cameras, wine, and electronics

And for the product manufacturers and distributors, there are full-page ads in Signs of the Times, Big Picture and Sign Builder Illustrated magazines as well as booth space for the 2016 SIGN EXPO in Orlando, FL.

There’s something for everyone, whether you’re a sign company, product manufacturer, wholesaler or distributor. All items at discount prices! Plus, you’ll have the good feeling of supporting your industry’s museum.

Go to: www.biddingforgood.com/americansignmuseum

Check the auction every several days for updates as new items will be added throughout the auction timeframe. Let the bidding begin!

All proceeds benefit the American Sign Museum’s acquisition and sign restoration fund. The American Sign Museum is a 501 (c) (3) not-for-profit corporation.

New Industry Research Brings Good News for 2015 Outlook Staying on top of solid research is vital to growing your business. That’s why the International Sign Association is providing sign and visual communications professionals with two vehicles that will keep you competitive.

First, ISA has released the latest installment of the International Sign Association’s Sign Industry Quarterly Economic Report. Secondly, we’re hosting a free webinar to break down the information.

The Economic Report has revealed two extremely positive findings.

• It anticipates above average growth for 2015 and 2016. • It also shows that the outlook for all segments has improved since the last quarter of 2014. These areas include large format printers, dynamic digital signage, electric signage and wayfinding.

The Q1-2015 Report was compiled by IHS and Vandiver Associates. It analyzes each segment of the market to allow users to stay current with evolving business conditions using first quarter data. It’s sponsored by the National Association of Sign Supply Distributors (NASSD).

The report is free for ISA, ISA Affiliated Association and NASSD members. It will be available online starting April 23 and stay tuned for information from ISA on a free webinar on these results being hosted by IHS.

12 Mid South Messenger - June 2015

Conquering the Fear of Failure From Dave Ramsey’s EntreLeadership Running a business can be scary. You put your heart and soul into your company and can’t imagine doing anything else. Then, you realize that no matter how successful you are, you might be just a few bad decisions away from losing your dream and disappointing your team. Luckily, it doesn’t have to be this way. In my EntreLeadership Master Series I teach people to face their fears. I talk about how, years ago, fear paralyzed my decision- making abilities until I came up with a system. In fact, one of the core values of my company today is that decisions are never made based on fear.

So, how can you conquer your fear of failing? 1. Face up to it You’re going to mess up at some point, and that’s okay. Own up to it, and realize you’re likely to stumble many times before you achieve success. Henry Ford, Bill Gates and Thomas Edison all screwed up numerous times before they hit it big. As Eleanor Roosevelt said, “You gain strength, courage and confidence by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face.” 2. What’s the worst that can happen? Always take into account a worst-case scenario when exploring new projects or options for your company. Ask yourself, Will we be able to survive if this new idea falls apart? When the answer is yes, the decision is no longer so frightening. Once you realize you’re not going to die from making a decision — even if it turns out to be the wrong decision — it releases you to make the call. 3. Talk it out Remember how it was always better to have a friend by your side when you faced something scary as a kid? The same holds true for adults. Find a business mentor who has been through tough times. Discuss your biggest fears with them. Once those concerns are out in the open, and you’ve gained insight through another person’s point of view, you just might find that they’re more manageable. 4. Always have a contingency plan Having several options is a great fear killer. For example, use several vendors so you aren’t relying on just one. That way, if something goes wrong, you already have a back-up plan. Options give you power, and power lessens fear. Now, understand this. There will always be some fear associated with your endeavour. Whether it’s being scared of losing customers, revenue or even being sued, these are all legitimate concerns. But it’s how you handle them that can mean the difference between success and failure. It’s wise to recognize that some fears may be well founded, and you should not ignore the potential consequences of the decisions you make. But never, ever allow the spirit of fear to drive you!

* Dave Ramsey is America’s trusted voice on business and money. He has authored five New York Times best-selling books, including EntreLeadership. The Dave Ramsey Show is heard by more than 8.5 million listeners each week on more than 550 radio stations. Follow Dave on the web at www.entreleadership.com.

B E THE E M R S

S S STEVE METHENY U SCHOLARSHIP FOUNDATION P R P E O B R M E MSSA and Mikos/Kampakis The purpose of “The Steve T I N M G INSURANCE PROGRAM Metheny Scholarship Foundation” Looking for a new career in the is to provide financial awards to As a matter of principle, MSSA Sign Industry? MSSA and Mikos/Kampakis employees or dependent children member companies do everything Insurance Service have partnered of employees of Mid South Sign they can to conduct business Looking for a better job in Signs? to ensure that you have an Association member firms. It is within the membership of the Need qualified sign people? opportunity to deal with a team the desire of MSSA to promote association because MSSA Ready to hire? of insurance professionals geared excellence in our industry by understands it cannot succeed Visit www.SignCareers.com toward providing insurance at a encouraging the young, bright, and without the success of its MSSA’s sign employment resource. competitive price in a very timely talented to further their education. member companies. fashion.

13 Mid South Messenger - June 2015

ISA Sign Expo 2015 - The Excitement Continues ISA International Sign Expo 2015 may be a wrap in Las Vegas, but the excitement continues. Not only was it a historic show for ISA, but there were a lot of “firsts”.

Some of the biggest news to come out of this year’s ISA Sign Expo is the fact that the tradeshow floor was completely sold-out with more than 600 exhibitors. That’s right, more than 213,000 net square feet - one of the largest in ISA’s history. And people were eager to get onto the show floor. In all, some 19,000 attendees took advantage of the opportunities to network with industry colleagues, increase their industry knowledge through education and expand their product lines and capabilities.

ISA also launched its ISA Elite program at ISA Sign Expo. The team is made up of 34 young professionals from around the country, many of whom were first-timers to the event. ISA Sign Expo was an opportunity for them to soak up the educational classes, check out the tradeshow floor, and make connections with other young professionals in the sign and visual communications industry.

“ISA Sign Expo 2015 was exhilarating,” said Lori Anderson, ISA president and CEO. “Though there may be a need to prop up the feet for a few days to recover from that huge tradeshow floor, we heard from so many sign and visual communications company personnel who took home new ideas and new products to grow their businesses.”

The tradeshow floor was not only a record and a sellout, but it also included a significant number of new product launches, including printers, substrates, lighting and more. The Dynamic Digital Park was 28 percent larger again this year. Now in its third year, the DDP has increased each year.

Over the next few weeks and months, ISA will continue to grow the excitement surrounding this year’s show by sharing stories, videos and testimonials.

And, be sure to mark your calendars, ISA Sign Expo 2016 is scheduled for April 20-23 in Orlando, Fla.

14 Mid South Messenger - June 2015

Members Supporting Members B E E M R S

At MSSA, we understand and appreciate the investment of time and money from all of our member companies. M

As a matter of principal, MSSA member companies do everything they can to conduct business within the S S membership of the association because MSSA understands it cannot succeed without the success of its U member companies. The following product manufacturers, engineers, and suppliers have agreed, by registering P R as 2015 MSSA members, to support MSSA in 2015. Please consider the following companies as you P E conduct business in 2015. A current membership list is available for viewing by visiting www.midsouthsign.org O B R M or for questions regarding a company’s MSSA membership, contact MSSA for clarification (901) 452–6444. T E I N G M 3M Commercial Graphics Division Gulf Signs, LLC Reece Supply Co AAA Business Signs Hartco Rick McClain & Associates, Inc. Admiral Wholesale Sign Components Hendrick Manufacturing S & F Custom Sign Corp AgiLight, Inc. Herring Sales SABIC Polymershapes Akzo Nobel Coatings Hiscall, Inc. Saginaw Pipe Allanson Lighting Components Hudson & Hudson Neon Scott Powerline & Utility Equipment Arlon Graphics, LLC Hybroco Sales, Inc. Scotts Sign System BDB Enterprises, Inc. Indy Imaging Inc. Sherwin-Williams Automotive Finishes Bayer MaterialScience Johnson Sales Company/Jasper Plastics Sign & Digital Graphics Bitro Group, Inc. Solutions Sign Builders, Inc. Cincinnati Sign Supplies KeyedIn Solutions Sign Fab, Inc. Cooley Sign & Digital Products LED Craft, Inc SignComp Cornerstone Engineering LetterFab, LLC Signdrafting, LLC Curbell Plastics, Inc LINK Engineering LLC SloanLED Custom Foam Fabricators LORD Corporation Southern Stud Weld Custom Products Corp Matthews Paint Steel Art Company Daktronics, Inc. M-D Metalsource Sullaway Engineering, Inc. Descant Awning and Sign Company MET Laboratories The Ross Group Direct Sign Wholesale Michael Brady Inc. ThinkSIGN, Inc. Eastern Metal Supply Mid-South Machine Thompson Engineering Services, LLC EBSCO Signs & Displays Mikos / Kampakis Insurance Service Trinity Products EGL Company, Inc. Mimaki USA Tubelite Company, Inc. Elliott Equipment Company Miratec Systems, Inc. US LED, Ltd. Elrod Engineering, LLC Mr. Plastic, Inc. USAwning Network Erie Custom Signs MultiCam Inc. Utility Equipment Service Facecrafters MYCO, INC Vantage LED faces N. Glantz & Son Ventex Technology/Transco To Go, LLC FDC Graphic Films, Inc. Next LED Signs Voltarc France Power Solutions Optec Displays Watchfire Signs by Time-O-Matic GE Lighting Solutions Orafol Americas World Wide Sign Systems Gemini, Inc. Palram Americas Wrisco Geneva Capital LLC Phoenix Metals Company YESCO Electronics Gerber Scientific Products Piedmont Plastics, Inc. YJ Inc. Graphic Solutions Group Plaskolite, Inc. Z3 Graphics, Inc. Grimco, Inc. Principal LED Zlight Technology, LLC

In 1974, Tom Agnew, owner of Agnew Sign and Awning, and Russell Condray, owner of Condray Sign Company, founded the Mid-South Sign Association.

This past March, during MSSA’s New Ideas, New Possibilities Conference, Agnew and Condray’s successors had the opportunity to meet for the first time! Mike Pulliam, owner of Agnew Sign and Awning, met Perry Oldner, owner of Condray Sign Company.

15 PRSRT STD U.S. Postage PAID Memphis, TN Permit No. 1023 720 Wildwood Trace Winchester, TN 37398

SIGHTS, SOUNDS & SIGNS OF MUSIC ROW ANNUAL MEETING & TRADE SHOW EMBASSY SUITES NASHVILLE SE JULY 23-25, 2015 MURFREESBORO, TENNESSEE • Education • Entertainment • Exhibits • Networking